foosmastah

Director Scott Brignac gives us a wonderfully outlandish story that could've turned into a theological treatise, but instead is a non-preachy, winsome look at the character and nature of God. In it, twins Rachel and Micah (both biblical names) set out to con a millionaire grieving the loss of his young daughter. As a result of his loss, the man (the excellent Alan Tudyk) is on a spiritual quest to find answers. Is God there? If so, is He good/cruel? So the twins take advantage of the man's grief-stricken and oft-drunk state by introducing themselves to him as angels and offering a meeting with God himself. Here, God is played by Frank (Michael McKean), the twins' mentor. As the grift goes on, the stakes get higher and more dangerous for Micah and Rachel. And as the twists and turns pile up, so does the choice of forgiveness and a chance at redemption. As a filmmaker with similar leanings, I was pleased to see issues of faith and big questions dealt with in a deft and subtle manner. Brignac may or may not care for the moniker "faith-based filmmaker," but this truly is what faith-based filmmaking can and should look like. Can't wait to see what he does next.

Most of the time a film has to have a really strong story to pull an audience in. And then there are other films where the characters are so well written, one couldn't care less about the story. Such is the case with director Josh Locy's clever debut.

The plot is simple...a perennial loser recently released from prison makes a new friend, hustles to earn money, and works to win back the girl of his dreams.

The likability of the characters is undeniable. Royo and Sample put in stellar performances as the quirky leads. What starts as a man-on-a-mission type film becomes something so much more powerful. And an idea as simple as the beauty of friendship is truly what shines through in this lovely little indie gem.

If you like character-driven films about people on the margins, please check this one out. It is well worth your time.